Skoda Fabia 1.2

The only reason you would consider buying the 1.2 Fabia is because the base Classic variant comes for Rs 5 lakh, on road, Mumbai. That’s a very good price for the equipment it comes with, including driver airbag, reach and rake adjust for the steering, and air con vents for the rear passengers.

The engine is a carryover from the previous Fabia 1.2, so there’s nothing new there. The Fabia is one of the better handling cars in the segment. Though the 1.2 does not have enough horses for you to really test its handling, it does make good use of the talent it has.

Ride quality and chassis dynamics are good enough to make you forget about the lack of grunt on the highway, except, of course, if you need to overtake. High-speed stability is fabulous and it really gives you a sense of security.

The real issue I have with this car is the equipment list on the top-end Elegance variant. It doesn’t even come with simple stuff like power mirror adjust and rear windscreen washer/wiper.

I’d say you’re better off with the base Classic variant. Or spend another Rs 30,000 over the 1.2 Elegance and get the 1.6 Elegance. Then you’ll have an engine that does justice to a wonderful car.